Lake Louise Ski Resort Kicks Off Winter Early with November 1 Opening!
On Sunday, November 1st, Lake Louise Ski Resort officially opened for the 26/27 winter season, 5 days ahead of schedule. This marks the resort’s second earliest opening on record and makes it the first Canadian resort to welcome back skiers and snowboarders to the slopes.
Cold October temperatures, around-the-clock snowmaking efforts and the hard work of mountain crews helped make an early return to winter possible.
With fresh snow, bright sun, and plenty of excitement across the mountain, the 2026/27 ski season is officially underway.
First Turns of the 2026/27 Season at Lake Louise Ski Resort | Photo Credit: Ryan De Angelis
First Turns of the Season
Some die-hard skiers and riders weren't waiting for sunrise, gathering at the chairlift for a 2:00 am meetup to kick off the opening day. Juniper Express Chair started also started early spinning just before 9:00 a.m., with Easy Street welcoming everyone back for their first turns of the season.
Two small early-season terrain parks, featuring jumps and rails, opened for those looking to ease back into their park skills. The Snow School beginner area is also open, with lessons available for those ready to start their season on the slopes.
Opening Day Excitement at Lake Louise Ski Resort | Photo Credit: Ryan De Angelis
On-Mountain Energy
Stoke was high across the mountain as opening day excitement started to build. Park riders were already hiking back up to lap the terrain park, while snowmaking machines continued to blow fresh snow across the slopes, adding to the winter atmosphere.
Looking Ahead to Winter | Photo Credit: Ryan De Angelis
The Season Ahead
Opening day is just the beginning of what's ahead for the 2026/27 season. Coming off the resort's snowiest season on record, there's plenty to look forward to this winter, with new terrain options, improved mountain connections and lift upgrades across the resort.
Summer improvements include:
- Richardson's Ridge improvements: New runs, expanded glading and additional snowmaking will create more opportunities to explore this area of the mountain.
- Better mountain connections: New connecting runs, including Prunepickers and Pikaboo, alongside improvements to Good Intentions and other high-traffic trails, will help skiers and riders move between mountain areas.
- Top of the World Chair upgrades: Increased loading capacity, upgraded electrical and control systems, and a more energy-efficient drive system will improve lift reliability and the overall guest experience.
- As more snow arrives and conditions allow, additional lifts and terrain will open throughout the season.
It's officially winter at Lake Louise Ski Resort | Photo Credit: Ryan De Angelis
Plan Your Winter at Lake Louise
With winter officially underway, there's no better time to start planning your days in the Canadian Rockies. Ski or snowboard all three of Banff National Park's legendary resorts with a SkiBig3 Lift Ticket or explore the benefits of the Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective.
For the latest updates on snowfall, lift openings and available terrain, check out the Lake Louise Ski Resort conditions page and recent photo gallery.
Winter starts early in Banff National Park, and we're just getting started!
